WASHINGTON- The United States is withdrawinSusan Heavey)g from UNESCO, the United Nation's cultural and educational agency, effective Dec. 31, the U.S. State Department said in a statement on Thursday.
"This decision was not taken lightly, and reflects U.S. concerns with mounting arrears at UNESCO, the need for fundamental reform in the organization, and continuing anti-Israel bias at UNESCO," the department said, adding that the United States would seek to "remain engaged ...as a non-member observer state in order to contribute U.S. views, perspectives and expertise."
(Reporting by Susan Heavey) ((202-898-8300; Reuters Messaging: susan.heavey.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))
"This decision was not taken lightly, and reflects U.S. concerns with mounting arrears at UNESCO, the need for fundamental reform in the organization, and continuing anti-Israel bias at UNESCO," the department said, adding that the United States would seek to "remain engaged ...as a non-member observer state in order to contribute U.S. views, perspectives and expertise."
(Reporting by Susan Heavey) ((202-898-8300; Reuters Messaging: susan.heavey.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))
